The Mobile Gaming World's Surprisingly Positive Outlook on AI

The gaming industry is currently divided over the use of generative AI, with some viewing it as a means to accelerate game development and explore new possibilities, while others express concerns about its reliability, ethics, and potential job displacement. However, the mobile gaming sector has been quietly embracing AI technology for years, with a relatively high level of acceptance among casual gamers. According to Hendrik Klindworth, chairman of InnoGames, the company is 'positive about the opportunities of AI' and utilizes it to create games that would be impossible to develop otherwise. Klindworth emphasizes that human involvement is still essential in the creative process, with AI serving as a tool to enhance productivity and quality. InnoGames plans to leverage AI to generate more content with its existing workforce, particularly in live-ops for games like Forge of Empires and Elvenar. The company's artists have reportedly responded positively to AI integration, using it to create new and innovative content. InnoGames has also been applying AI in engineering, with promising results. Despite the challenges of the saturated mobile market, Klindworth believes it is essential for companies to continue creating new games and experimenting with fresh ideas. The company's latest title, Cozy Coast, marks a departure from its usual strategy games, targeting a casual audience with a 'merge-2' puzzle mechanic. Klindworth attributes InnoGames' success to its ability to balance core strengths with new and innovative elements. As part of the Modern Times Group, InnoGames has benefited from knowledge sharing with other MTG-owned firms, such as Plarium. Klindworth stresses the importance of autonomy for development teams, allowing them to find the best approach for each game. With the gaming industry's growth slowing down, Klindworth focuses on sustainability, encouraging companies to optimize their existing teams and processes to create more content and improve efficiency.